Andi’s Pick: Old Edwards Inn And Spa

For years, I had heard rumors that there was a hidden gem nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains named Old Edwards Inn and Spa. I am not sure what took me so long to visit since it was just a short drive away, but once I arrived, I never wanted to leave. I instantly knew why this property had won one award after another and why so many people had told me that it was a must-visit destination. It was even voted #1 Hotel Spa in North America by Condé Nast Traveler’s readers in 2010.

Location

Highlands, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, feels as though it has been preserved in time. Walk outside the hotel’s front door and you will find yourself amidst first-class shopping, dining, and culture. Since it is surrounded by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and a temperate rainforest, you will also encounter some of the most beautiful natural attractions that the Unites States has to offer ranging from pristine lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. This rural community deserves its reputation as being one of America’s prettiest small towns.

The Room

Balancing urbane sophistication with rustic quaintness, the Old Edwards Inn and Spa puts guests’ minds at ease and lifts their spirits with its casual elegance, luxurious amenities, and impressive service. This five-star retreat is an excellent setting for romance, individuals, girlfriend getaways, and family trips. In your stunning room or suite, you will be enveloped by period antiques with European bedding and linens, and many are accompanied by terraces that offer sweeping views of downtown Highlands.

The Bathroom

The spacious en suite bathroom was my favorite part about the suite I stayed in. I was told that if I wanted the marble tiled floor warmer or cooler, all I had to do was notify the front desk and they would change it immediately to my liking. The Molton Brown bath products complemented the lavish towels perfectly.

The Extras

There are many thoughtful touches to be discovered throughout the hotel including: champagne upon arrival, an all-day Butler’s pantry with complimentary drinks and Dove Bars, Keurig coffee machines in the accommodations, and a lovely evening turn-down service that comes with a surprise treat and a note with the weather forecast for the following day. It is specifically because the property goes above and beyond for their beloved guests, that The Farm at Old Edwards, a thirty-three acre pastoral setting on the grounds, has now become a popular destination-wedding venue. In fact, the entire property is a wedding photographer’s dream-come-true backdrop – it is so gorgeous that you can imagine a bride and groom posing everywhere!

Why It Is Andi’s Pick

Old Edwards Inn and Spa is a glimmering jewel in North Carolina’s lure. No matter what the season, their phenomenal, award-winning health spa will pamper you in a style that you could easily get accustomed to. And true to the Highlands reputation as being a foodie’s destination, the chefs at the resort’s restaurant Madison’s demonstrate on a daily basis their incredible skill with products from local farms.

Thanks for sharing, it means the world to me!

About Andi's Pick

This hotel has been carefully selected and is highly recommended by Andi Perullo de Ledesma, the Editor-in-Chief and Creator of My Beautiful Adventures. She travels the world in search of the best in luxury accommodation. If your hotel would like to be reviewed for consideration of being added into the elite collection of "picks," please contact Andi at: AndiPerullo@aol.com

This kind of old fashioned look isn’t really my style, I have to admit, but the couches look like I would want to sink in with a good book on a rainy day and never leave. And heated bathroom floor + Molton Brown products = heaven.

Ohhhh I love North Carolina!! Reminds me of being a kid. We used to go every year to the beach, and I went to summer camp in the Blue Ride Mountains. I need to go back! Except for one wedding in the Outer Banks at least ten years ago, I don’t think I’ve been back since middle school-ish…

OK! We are going on a multi-month cross-country trip in the fall and I will have to put North Carolina on my list and this Spa of course! I’m going to have to back-read a ton of your posts so I know where to go in the South!